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The World Health Organization (WHO) published an article calling for greater global attention to childhood hearing loss as part of World Hearing Day 2026, which focuses on the theme “From communities to classrooms: hearing care for all children.” The initiative focuses on avoidable hearing loss and identifying hearing problems early, particularly through early childhood screening programs.
WHO notes that many hearing conditions affecting children can be prevented or treated. The organization estimates that nearly 60 percent of ear and hearing problems could be addressed through care available at local health clinics, yet more than 80 percent of people who need hearing services do not receive them. Untreated hearing loss can affect speech and language development, education, and social participation. WHO is encouraging countries to strengthen primary health care systems, expand screening programs, and increase access to interventions such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, therapy services, and other assistive technologies.
Read the full article here.
